This season, The Nora has explored the feminine in various settings.  With Women of Will, Tina Packer masterfully led us on a thought-provoking journey through Shakespeare’s canon to learn what his women characters could tell us about creating a more enlightened society. Shahrazad, the storyteller from ancient Persia, used her strong and persuasive voice to heal the betrayed king’s heart and effect change through non-violent ways in Arabian Nights.

Anna Ziegler’s gripping Photograph 51 brings us to the 20^th century and Rosalind Franklin, a most compelling figure in the world of science.  Her story was unknown to me until a colleague urged me to read the play, and I imagine this may be the case with some of you at the performance today. I was to learn, however, that Rosalind Franklin holds a fascination for many people, and her allure comes in a number of forms: self-less researcher devoted to science, feminist icon bucking the established male scientific bulwark, wronged colleague, temperamental and unreasonable crank, scientist of the highest order.  There are even several YouTube videos made by passionate admirers, one of which is set to a song by Coldplay.

We feel fortunate for the opportunity to bring a glimpse of this amazing and controversial figure to you.  Taking part in this venture is a wonderful team of actors, designers, technicians, and crew, all led by my friend and colleague of over twenty years, Danny Gidron. My heartfelt thanks to them for their embrace of this project.  I also want to extend a special thank you to Anna Ziegler for introducing me to Rosalind Franklin in the first place.  For regardless of whatever persona is attributed to her, Rosalind Franklin pursued her scientific work with the aim of improving the lot of humankind, and she did so at times against formidable odds and with great courage.